5 Reasons Why Women (Especially Moms) Should Lift Weights

Research shows that women can significantly benefit from lifting weights. Yet, despite study after study, many women opt for cardio over weight training. Lifting weights gives you the edge over belly fat, aches & pains, stress, heart disease, cancer – and it is also a great way to make you feel empowered and look svelt! So what are you waiting for?

Here’s 5 reasons why it’s time to hit the weights (at least once a week):

1. You’ll Lose Belly Fat

While it is true that you can’t spot reduce—your body is born with pre-conceived places it wants to store fat (hello baby bearing hips)—a University of Alabama study found that the women who lifted weights lost more intra-abdominal fat (deep belly fat) than those who just did cardio. It’s critical to boost resistance training to help boost growth hormone—which is aids in fat-burning. This not only helps you slim your waistline and feel better in your clothes, but it also lessens your risk of diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and some cancers.

2. You’ll Feel Empowered

Lifting weights—and building strength as a result—comes with a big self-esteem boost. Your strength will not only show in your lean, toned body, but also in your attitude and ability to tackle parenting. “I feel so bad-ass, and empowered when I lift weights. I love AMC workouts”.

3. Your Clothes Will Fit Better

Research shows that between the ages of 30 and 50, you’ll likely lose 10 percent of your body’s muscle mass. And unfortunately, muscle will likely be replaced by fat over time. This change increases your waist size, because one pound of fat takes up 18 percent more space than one pound of muscle.

4. You’ll Prevent Injury

Achy hips, sore knees, and a bothersome back do not have to be a part of how your day starts. Strengthening core muscles, and those surrounding and supporting your joints can help prevent injuries by helping you maintain good posture, as well as strengthening joint integrity. As you know, it’s a lot of strenuous work to take care of your little one(s)!

5. You’ll Increase Your Metabolism & Torch Body Fat

You may have been told that cardio is the ultimate fat burner, but that effect stops the minute you hop off the treadmill. Build more muscle and you’ll keep your body burning fat all day long. In fact, a study published in The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that women who did weight training burned an average of 100 more calories during the 24 hours after their training session ended.

As a mom your personal, self-care time is precious. Make the most of your workouts by incorporating weights into a high intensity circuit workout with Active Moms’ Club Fit & Fab Small Group Training and reap the benefits for yourself. Join us, we’ll show you how to hit the weights.